James "Jim"

L. Schmidt

Colon — James "Jim" L. Schmidt, 78, of Colon, formerly of Atkinson, died Saturday, May 9, 2026 in Omaha.

Funeral services were held Tuesday, May 19, 2026 at First Presbyterian Church in Wahoo.

Memorials may be made to the family for future designation.

Pruss-Nabity Funeral Home of Wahoo was in charge of the arrangements.

James was born July 4, 1947, in Atkinson, to Raymond and Ethel Schmidt. Jim grew up on the family farm and graduated from St. Joseph Catholic High School in 1965. Following graduation, he enlisted in the United States Navy and served aboard an aircraft carrier during the Vietnam War.

After his military service, Jim worked for New York Bell Telephone Company and later worked in investment banking in California. He earned an associate degree in business from Metro Tech Community College and also worked as an auto body repair technician.

Jim married Mary Johnson on May 12, 1984, at First Presbyterian Church in Wahoo. The couple made their home on an acreage near Colon, where James enjoyed the quiet of country life and time spent with family.

He especially enjoyed attending his grandchildren's activities and cherished time spent fishing and swimming with his children. 

Jim was proud of his military service and remained active in veterans organizations throughout his life. James was active with Vietnam Veterans of America, Nebraska State Council, serving as its first State Commander. He was also a member of Wahoo VFW Post #4502, the DAV, a Vietnam veterans motorcycle club, First Presbyterian Church and other veterans organizations.

Jim is survived by his wife Mary Schmidt of Colon; one son Justin Schmidt of Wahoo; three daughters Katie (Josh) Scholting of Colon, Andrea (Jeff) Salisbury of Gretna, and Kiley (Kyle) Covey of Omaha; three stepchildren Jeremy Lamprecht of Lincoln, Angie (Mike) Sabatka of Wahoo and Clint (Audra) Lamprecht of Ithaca; many grandchildren; one great-grandchild; one brother John (Irene) Schmidt of Chula Vista, CA; one sister Meagan (Bill) Cotton of Lakeway, Texas; and other relatives and friends.

He was preceded in death by his parents Raymond and Ethel Schmidt.